Microsoft rolls out Xbox Live in Korea

Console online gaming is seen as a key emerging market for video game publishers and console makers, looking to charge subscriptions for multi-player action — enabling several people to play against one another over an Internet connection.

“Microsoft has always considered Korea was going to be a very important market because of the high interest in video and online gaming,” Alan Bowman, General Manager, Asia Pacific for Microsoft’s Home and Entertainment Division, told Reuters.

“That is supported by the fact that broadband is so highly penetrated in the household level,” he added.